Halle's public transport grinds to a halt as strike disrupts commuters

Mayor Thanks Emergency Staff in Video Message as HAVAG Strike Disrupts Services Until Monday

A warning strike called by the ver.di union at Hallesche Verkehrs-AG (HAVAG) has brought public transport in Halle to a partial standstill. With a reduced service in operation, several bus and tram lines remain running, though thousands of commuters have been forced to switch to cars or bicycles. Amid the disruption, Lord Mayor Dr. Alexander Vogt addressed the public with a clear message. The union is demanding significant improvements in working conditions and pay, while employers warn of excessive strain on municipal budgets.

Gratitude in a Video Address

Against the backdrop of hardened positions, Lord Mayor Dr. Alexander Vogt reached out directly to citizens and employees in a video message shared on social media this afternoon. He explicitly thanked those HAVAG staff who chose not to participate in the strike.

"My special thanks today go to all the colleagues at HAVAG who, despite these difficult circumstances, have shown up for work," Vogt said in the clip.

Thanks to their efforts, he noted, at least an emergency service and the maintenance of critical technical infrastructure could be ensured. Vogt emphasized that this commitment to the community was far from a given, especially in times of disruption.

He also invited residents to visit Halle's Easter market, running from Friday to Sunday, with shops in the Old Town opening for Sunday trading as well.

Patience Required Until Monday Morning

Passengers, however, must continue to brace for significant disruptions. Unions have vowed to press ahead with the strike, with regular service not expected to resume until operations begin on Monday morning.

Until then, HAVAG is advising all travelers to use alternative transport or, where possible, work from home. Electronic timetables may still display some trips that will not actually run.